How should you properly load a carabiner?

Loading a carabiner properly is crucial for safety in climbing and rescue operations. The correct way to load a carabiner is along its major axis, specifically along the spine. The major axis is the strongest part of the carabiner and is designed to withstand the greatest amount of force, while the spine provides structural integrity. When loaded on the major axis, the forces exerted during fall or load transfers are distributed evenly, ensuring that the carabiner functions as intended without risk of failure.

Choices that involve loading on other parts of the carabiner, such as the minor axis or near a bend, do not utilize the carabiner's design effectively and can lead to potential failure under load. Loading on the gate side is also unsafe, as the gate mechanism is not meant to bear the load and could inadvertently open, leading to a hazardous situation. Therefore, understanding and applying the concept of loading along the major axis helps ensure maximum strength and safety during use.